Aloidendron tongaense 'Medusa' (Mozambique Tree Aloe)

Scientific Name

Aloidendron tongaense 'Medusa'

Common Names

Mozambique Tree Aloe

Synonyms

Aloe tongaensis 'Medusa', Aloe 'Medusa', Aloe barberae 'Medusa', Aloe bainesii 'Medusa'

Scientific Classification

Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Aloidendron

Description

Aloidendron tongaense 'Medusa' is a medium-to-large sized tree Aloe, growing up to 12 feet (3.6 m) tall with heavily branching stems and thin, 1.5 inches (3.7 cm) long, pale green, recurved leaves. It flowers in early winter with the flower stem rising up to 2 feet (60 cm) before branching with each upright branch bearing compact rounded clusters of pale orange buds opening to a pale salmon or yellow color.

Photo via gardenweb.com

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zone 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Aloe is a very forgiving plant, and a well-grown plant can be quite beautiful. As with all succulents, it's essential that Aloe is never allowed to sit in stagnant water, and the plant should be carefully monitored to watch for signs of overwatering.

Aloe are not particularly fast-growing and will only rarely need repotting. Repot plants in the spring that are tipping over their pots or have ceased growing. Use a fast-draining potting mix with one-third sand or pebbles. During repotting of a larger plant, it is possible to carefully divide the root ball. Some kinds of Aloe will send off off-sets that can be potted independently.

It needs strong, bright light. They can withstand full summer sun, once acclimated. In the winter, provide bright light. It prefers warmer temperatures of 70 to 80 °F (21 to 27 °C), but will survive down to 40 °F (4.5 °C). Feed with a cactus fertilizer in the summer only. Suspend feeding in the winter as the plant goes dormant… – See more at: How to Grow and Care for Aloe